Written Answers Nos. 121-155
123. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has conducted research to determine the projected costs which the State could incur in fines from the EU if it misses climate targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26602/26]
View answerIreland’s target to reduce emissions under the revised Effort Sharing Regulations (ESR) is 42% compared to 2005 levels by 2030. This Regulation covers those sectors of the economy that fall outside the scope of the current EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) including transport, buildings, agriculture, light industry and waste.
Under the existing compliance arrangements, Member States can meet their targets through direct emissions reductions, as well as through additional compliance options provided for in the framework.
The framework does not provide for the imposition of direct fines or penalties. However, it does allow for the purchasing of surplus allowances from overperforming Member States which could have significant costs. Estimating these costs requires working with significant data limitations as, at this point, there is no established market or set cost for allowances. This was noted by the CCAC and IFAC in their report and Government officials will continue to monitor developments and provide annual updated figures to Cabinet.
124. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if additional measures are being considered to help accelerate the transition to a green economy, particularly in light of the ongoing Iran war’s impact on oil prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27654/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government Departments to carry out climate mitigation efforts every day. The rollout of retrofitting, renewable energy deployment, and more affordable electric vehicles continues at pace.
It is important to recognise the progress made by the Irish people, communities and businesses in lowering emissions and the plans and funding in place to support Ireland's continuing transition to an energy self-sufficient carbon neutral thriving economy and society over the next decades. Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 35 years, which is notable given concurrent demographic and economic growth including an increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads.
An important way of insulating our economy and society from fuel price shocks is to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Renewable electricity is our energy insurance policy and the foundation upon which we will achieve our regional, national, and international energy and climate targets. Further deployment of renewable electricity generation will have a stabilising effect on the energy costs to homes and businesses, as well as making us more resilient when it comes to disruptions such as extreme weather, economic shocks, and cyberattacks.
Ireland's climate policy, underpinned by Climate Act and the Climate Action Plan, strengthens our long-term energy security and independence by shifting the country away from imported, price-volatile fossil fuels toward indigenous renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
By generating our own power domestically while reducing demand through efficiency measures (like nationwide home retrofitting), our climate policy helps insulate Ireland from international energy market shocks and supply chain disruptions, which fundamentally stabilises long-term affordability for consumers.
Increasing the uptake of heat pumps among homeowners is a top priority for my Department. Retrofitting makes homes more comfortable and cheaper to heat, and we want to support as many households to access the supports available for retrofitting. The updated National Residential Retrofit Plan, which was announced in January 2026, includes new and enhanced measures, has made retrofitting supports more accessible to households
We are also making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030, having now reached the major milestone of 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. Government is now prioritising the development of our offshore wind capacity. We have doubled our wind energy capacity over the past 10 years, and in February wind energy provided a record 50% of our electricity. The milestone of over 2GW of installed solar capacity was achieved in November 2025 and is now at 2.4GW. Solar has increased from zero to replace coal as the third highest source of indigenous generation in under 10 years.
The Government has approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in Grid for the period 2026 – 2030 which is fundamental to the electrification of homes, businesses and transport. The 2025 ZEVI target for electrical vehicle sales of 195,000 was surpassed in October 2025, with sales now at 212,000. All of these measures accelerate our shift away from volatile fossil fuel markets.
The ongoing transition to a climate-neutral economy has profound implications for our economy and society. In formulating the next Climate Action Plan, the Government will carefully consider a wide range of factors to ensure the approach is ambitious, feasible, and sustainable. It is vital that our climate policies and emissions reduction pathways deliver the best possible value for money while maximising the net benefits to society. We must protect the long-term competitiveness of our economy, maintain the State’s attractiveness for investment, and maximise employment opportunities while ensuring a just transition that supports communities right across the country.
125. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the public consultation process undertaken, the estimated life span of the terminal, the estimated cost and so on of the proposed gas terminal on the Shannon. [27244/26]
View answerIn March 2025, I received Government approval to develop a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve. The delivery of a gas reserve is critical to Ireland’s energy security as we continue to transition to indigenous, clean renewable energy. Crucially, the strategic gas emergency reserve will also ensure compliance with EU standards and regulations.
In identifying this as the optimal approach, my Department built upon the extensive review of security of Ireland’s gas and electricity systems which was approved by Government in the 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' plan in November 2023. As part of the analysis, the report included a major public consultation exercise with over 450 responses that were reviewed and influenced the final report, which is published in Annex 3 on gov.ie.
The strategic gas emergency reserve is being introduced to address Ireland’s security of gas supply risk. The operation of the reserve will be underpinned by both policy and legislation that my Department is currently developing which will address end of life provisions. The disposal or repurposing of this facility will be informed by the resolution of the energy risk for which this measure was introduced.
Gas Networks Ireland are now progressing the project through detailed design and market engagement to determine the final costs to deliver this strategic gas emergency reserve. The final investment decision will be subject to Government approval and will be supported by independent assessments undertaken by financial and commercial advisory authority NewERA, as well as the Commission for Regulation of Utilities.
This Government remains committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and has greatly boosted the share of renewables in our increasingly electrified energy system. Ireland has recently reached 8GW of renewable electricity capacity and almost 50% of electricity came from renewable sources in February this year.
126. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the measures he is taking to help businesses reduce energy costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27679/26]
View answerThe escalation of conflict in the Middle East has created an energy shock, introducing significant uncertainty into global energy markets. It is directly impacting Irish households and businesses in terms of cost and affordability.
Disruption to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, alongside heightened risk to regional oil and gas infrastructure, has placed upward pressure on wholesale energy prices at a time when the cost and affordability of energy remain a serious challenge. I am working closely with colleagues across Government and the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, in particular, on the challenges facing business. The Deputy will be aware of recent emergency measures announced by Government and my Department, including the deferral and removal of charges and levies on fuels to bring immediate relief.
In terms of ongoing support, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers a range of grants and supports on behalf of my Department, which help businesses become more energy efficient. Through the ‘Easy Wins’ campaign, Government is emphasising accessible, SME-tailored supports that support businesses to adopt approaches and technologies, many of which are low-cost and rapid-payback, and that businesses can implement immediately to reduce energy demand and exposure to price shocks. Businesses with significant energy bills can avail of no-cost audits to evaluate their energy use and identify opportunities for savings through the Support Scheme for Energy Audits.
These supports and initiatives like the Large Industry Energy Network and the Energy Academy allow businesses to develop strategies and understand innovative approaches to manage and conserve energy without making major investments.
I also want to stress that grant support is available from a range of both rapid approval and tailored support grants.
The two major rapid approval grant schemes operated by the SEAI on behalf of my Department are the Business Energy Upgrades Scheme, and the Non-Domestic Microgeneration Grant. These enable businesses to gain near instantaneous approval for grant supports for solar installations, insulation, energy efficient equipment and a range of other measures that can start paying back very quickly and improve resilience and competitiveness.
For businesses with more bespoke needs, my Department, through the SEAI, also offers tailored support grants - the Excellence in Energy Efficient Design Scheme, the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat and the Community Energy Grant Scheme.
There are also a range of supports available from the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and Enterprise Ireland, to help businesses reduce energy consumption and operating costs, and information on these is available from the Climate Toolkit 4 Business website.
128. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps he is taking to accelerate the delivery of offshore renewable energy in the wake of energy price hikes triggered by the ongoing conflict in the middle east; if the State will develop and retain ownership of any of the offshore wind sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26171/26]
View answerFive offshore wind projects off our East coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts, are presently in development. The first planning determination is anticipated before the end of 2026, with others to follow in 2027. Subject to approval, I anticipate that these five projects will be in procurement and construction by 2030 and operational in the early 2030s.
In December 2025, I announced that Helvick Head DAC, a consortium of ESB and Orsted, had won my Department’s second offshore wind auction and will be developing a 900 megawatt project off the coast of Waterford. I expect this project to be energised by 2033. This project was the first of four to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP.
My Department is working closely with EirGrid to develop grid connection options and is separately commissioning and procuring survey data of the second South Coast DMAP site known as Lí Ban.
My Department is also preparing plans to bring the remaining two sites within the South Coast DMAP to market and is advancing the National DMAP in order to meet our targets.
Government has no plans for the State to directly develop offshore wind sites. The State is likely to secure best value for electricity consumers through competitive auction of sites designated within DMAPs.
129. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has received any reports from the National Waste Collection Permit Office since March 2025; if so, the issues addressed in any such reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26718/26]
View answerThe Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy (WAPCE) contains a commitment to introduce further measures to incentivise the prevention and segregation of waste
Arising from this commitment, the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) commissioned an independent study on incentivised waste charging and its potential implementation through the Waste Collection Permitting System.
This study, which has been shared with the Department, examines what changes could be made to the permitting system, for waste collectors to fully incentivise waste prevention and improve source segregation practices by their customers to minimise their waste collection bills.
Recommendations will be considered in conjunction with outcomes from the feasibility study into transitioning our national waste collection from its current competitive licensing system to a franchise model, which is currently underway. Both will inform the development of the next iteration of the WAPCE with a view to improving recycling rates by households and businesses in order to meet targets established by the EU Waste Framework Directive.
130. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the progress of the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve Bill 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27640/26]
View answerIn March of last year, I received Government approval to develop a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve. The delivery of a strategic gas reserve is critical to Ireland's energy security as we transition to indigenous, clean renewable energy. Crucially, the strategic gas emergency reserve will also ensure compliance with EU standards and regulations.
The State-led, transitional nature of the reserve ensures that the risk of stranded fossil fuel assets is reduced, that the reserve will be used for emergency use only, and that it does not support increased gas demand with a view to minimising impacts on greenhouse gas emissions. Government remains committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and has greatly boosted the share of renewables in our increasingly electrified energy system. This, however, means greater reliance on gas to provide sufficient flexibility and backup for secure electricity supplies at times of low renewable output.
My Department is developing the appropriate policy and legislative measures to ensure that the strategic reserve provides resilience to our energy system in a manner that is compatible with Ireland's climate legislation.
The Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve Bill is to provide for an expedited planning consenting pathway to allow the next stage of delivery of the strategic gas emergency reserve project. The Bill is currently being drafted, having completed pre legislative scrutiny, and will be completed as early as possible.
The general scheme underpinning the operation of the strategic gas emergency reserve will be brought forward later this year.
131. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the progress being made to date on the development of offshore wind energy potential; if sites are being identified; the infrastructure and regulatory impediments that remain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27556/26]
View answerFive offshore wind projects off our East coast, with a planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts, are at present in development and anticipated to be operational by the early 2030s. The Tonn Nua project, with a target capacity of 900 MW, in the South Coast DMAP is also advancing with the auction of a second site within the South Coast DMAP expected to take place in 2027.
My Department is also advancing the National ORE DMAP which aims to designate sites around Ireland’s entire sea area capable of delivering up to 15GW of Offshore Renewable Energy, to be in development by 2040. The delivery of this plan is a key priority for Government and has a target date of end of 2027 for publication.
Teams within my Department are currently carrying out extensive stakeholder engagement to identify the most advantageous sites for future development of ORE. A number of stakeholder workshops were carried out in early 2026 with representatives from ORE ports and industry groups, seafood and fishing, and environmental NGOs. Further in-person regional events will take place as the year progresses, with a full statutory public consultation to follow in 2027. My Department is also in the process of analysing all available marine data to ensure site selection has a solid evidence base and takes into account potential environmental impacts.
Given the complex nature of offshore wind projects, through the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce, officials from my Department and across other relevant Departments and agencies are actively working to address any potential barriers to offshore wind development in Ireland as they arise.
132. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the measures he is taking with regard to generating energy from hydrogen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27301/26]
View answerGovernment recognises the key role that renewable hydrogen is anticipated to play in our future energy system and as a key component of our zero-carbon economy.
It will be extremely challenging for Ireland to achieve our target of a net zero emissions power system by 2050 without decarbonised gases like renewable hydrogen.
It is a strong contender to displace fossil fuels in dispatchable power generation which is essential for a reliable power system and is especially important during periods of low renewable generation, sometimes known as “dunkelflaute”.
Renewable hydrogen can be produced in Ireland using our abundant wind and solar resources, enhancing security of supply. Hydrogen can also provide further system resilience in the form of long-term inter-seasonal storage of renewable energy.
There are a number of key workstreams underway which will lay the groundwork to enable to the development of the hydrogen sector in Ireland.
The National Hydrogen Programme Taskforce is making good progress on a number of key strands to deliver the actions from the National Hydrogen Strategy, with the current focus on developing the necessary legislative and regulatory frameworks, developing a fund for hydrogen demonstration projects, and further building on key research to develop a solid evidence base for policymaking.
The SEAI’s Decarbonised Electricity System Study (DESS) is developing an evidence-based decarbonisation pathway for a decarbonised electricity system in Ireland by 2050, which includes hydrogen in a decarbonised energy system. The final outputs from the Study will be a significant step in defining the role that renewable hydrogen should play in our power system and these are expected by the end of the year.
134. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the delivery of 5GW of offshore renewable energy as planned for under the Climate Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27600/26]
View answerUnder the Climate Action Plan, greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector have reached an all time low, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and fallen by about 44% between 2016 and 2024.
The Climate Action Plan 2025 includes targets of 5 GW offshore wind, 9 GW onshore wind and 8 GW of solar capacity, together with a target of an 80% renewables share of electricity generation. Incremental progress is being made each year on these targets through a regular series of auctions under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme.
In relation to offshore wind, five projects are progressing off our East coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts. The first planning determination from An Coimisiún Pleanala is anticipated before the end of 2026, with the others to follow in 2027. Subject to approval, I anticipate that these five projects will be in procurement and construction over the next few years and be operational in the early 2030s.
In December 2025, I announced that Helvick Head DAC, a consortium of ESB and Orsted, had won my Department’s second offshore wind auction and will be developing the Tonn Nua 900 megawatt project off the coast of Waterford. I expect the Tonn Nua project to be energised by 2033. Tonn Nua was the first of four sites to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP.
My Department is working closely with EirGrid to develop grid connection options and is separately commissioning and procuring survey data of the second South Coast DMAP site known as Lí Ban.
My Department is also preparing plans to bring to market the remaining two sites within the South Coast DMAP over the next few years, delivering total capacity from the South Coast DMAP of close to 5 gigawatts.
Separately, my Department is advancing the National DMAP process, which will designate sufficient additional sites to facilitate our longer term targets.
135. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he has had discussions with his Spanish counterpart in relation to the possibility of an interconnection project between our two countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27348/26]
View answerI met with Spanish Minister for the Ecological Transition, Sara Aagesen, at the International Energy Agency (IEA) Ministerial Meeting in Paris this February. Minister Aagesen and I spoke about jointly undertaking further work on the feasibility of an electricity interconnector between Spain and Ireland.
Increasing our interconnection will safeguard our future energy security, decarbonise our electricity systems, and help drive down consumer costs.
Since that meeting, officials in my Department have been working with their Spanish equivalents to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which will establish the political commitment to a Spanish-Irish interconnector, and will enable us to work together to progress the technical and financial feasibility of this key piece of strategic infrastructure.
I expect to sign this MOU in the coming weeks.
137. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps he is taking to reduce Ireland's dependence on imported fossil fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27492/26]
View answerThe 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' strategy set out a clear vision to move away from reliance on imported fossil fuels to an electricity-led energy system. The recent global energy shocks have made clear the need to implement this vision to ensure the security of our energy system. Delivery of our ambitious renewable and electrification targets set out in the Climate Action Plan will be key in this regard.
The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is Ireland's flagship scheme to support the deployment of new renewable generation projects. The five RESS auctions held to date have been instrumental in providing a supportive policy and investment environment for renewables in Ireland, enhancing Ireland’s energy security and the diversity of our electricity supply. Ireland currently has over 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network, with approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity added in just ten years, including doubling our wind capacity and establishing solar energy as a major pillar of our energy supply. The next auction, RESS 6, is scheduled to take place in the second half of this year.
Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the First Revision of the National Planning Framework, published in April 2025. The inclusion of these allocations is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets and will support a plan-led approach to the strategic planning of renewable technologies.
On the electricity grid, increasing amounts of batteries, long duration storage, interconnector capacity and demand side response have also been procured in recent capacity market auctions which will lessen Ireland's dependence on fossil fuel imports in the coming years.
The variable nature of some renewable technologies currently requires dispatchable gas generation to ensure security of supply. The Government has set a target of 5.7 TWh of indigenous biomethane by 2030, reducing reliance on gas imported from the UK. The Biomethane Implementation Group has been established to oversee implementation of the National Biomethane Strategy and delivery of the 25 key strategic actions to ensure the necessary infrastructure and supports are in place to support development of an indigenous biomethane industry of scale.
In the medium-term, renewable hydrogen is anticipated to play a key role in our future energy system. The SEAI’s Decarbonised Electricity System Study, which is due to be published by the end of the year, will be a significant step in defining the role that renewable hydrogen should play in our power system.
139. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the work of the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27630/26]
View answerThe Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce (OWDT) comprises 16 Government Departments and agencies working together with industry representatives to deliver progress on Ireland’s offshore wind ambitions. Following a review of the previous year’s work programme, the Annual Review is drafted and published which provides a progress update on the preceding year and sets out a number of key actions to be undertaken during the year ahead. The review of the 2025 work programme has been completed and the annual report for 2025 detailing key actions for 2026 is under review, prior to publication.
A number of high-level offshore wind milestones from last year include:
• ongoing engagement with the planning process to progress five Phase One offshore wind projects that will deliver 3.8 GW of electricity capacity;
• publication of the Proposal and Public Participation Statement for a National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) for Offshore Renewable Energy;
• the successful ORESS auction of the Tonn Nua offshore wind development site;
• grid development including significant increases of funding announced via the National Development Plan and publication of CRU’s Price Review 6; and
• completion of Port of Cork redevelopment works to accommodate construction and maintenance of offshore wind.
The most recent meeting of the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce was held on 13 April 2026.
The Annual reports, minutes and other relevant documents from the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce are available to view on the gov.ie website.
140. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his plans to reduce waiting times for the solar PV scheme for medically vulnerable customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27081/26]
View answerThe Solar PV for the Medically Vulnerable Scheme is a targeted scheme for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for customers/households who are registered on the life support category of the Priority Services Register. These homes have a dependence on electrically powered equipment, including medical equipment, life protecting devices and assistive technologies such as dialysis machines and respirators. As such, these households may have a higher energy demand than the average user and this scheme is designed to go some way towards helping to reduce those energy costs.
The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in conjunction with energy suppliers, with each energy supplier contacting their own eligible customers directly, in line with the work plans for their solar PV installers. Eligible households can avail of a fully funded 2kWp solar PV system, including survey/design, supply, installation, and the post works BER.
It is important to note that suppliers, who manage the administrative aspects of the scheme under the SEAI, issue offers to eligible homeowners. Each participating supplier received an allocated amount of funding under their Memorandum of Understanding with the SEAI and contacts eligible households in batches, based on operational capacity.
Due to the strong uptake, eligibility for the scheme was extended in November 2025 to include all homeowners who are registered under the life support category of the Priority Services Register with their energy supplier, regardless of when they were registered, as long the house is built and occupied on or before 31 December 2020.
Over 470 systems were installed last year with expenditure of €2.4 million. This year will see a major expansion of delivery with an allocation of €11.7 million to support over 1,900 homes.
141. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the action he is taking to address public concerns regarding onshore wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27231/26]
View answerEnergy from wind and solar is currently supplying our homes and businesses with sustainable, indigenous power, protecting our economy, and helping us build a more stable and secure energy future. Onshore wind is the bedrock to our transition to a renewables led energy system supplying Ireland’s homes and businesses, supplying 40% of our electricity in March.
While nearly 57% of the national target for onshore wind of 9 GW has been energised to date, a strong pipeline of projects is being brought forward through the planning, grid connection and consenting processes which will need the support of local communities.
Onshore wind and solar is supporting investment and employment in local economies and Community Benefit Funds under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme are being rolled out to support sustainable community initiatives.
Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the first revision of the National Planning Framework published in April 2025. These allocations will be planned for and integrated into Regional Renewable Energy Strategies, forming part of the assemblies revised Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies. As part of these strategies, the Regional Assemblies will identify sub-allocations for each of their local authorities.
These local authority level allocations will in turn be planned for through the city and county development plans, ultimately leading to the identification and designation, by Local Authorities, of suitable areas where onshore wind and solar energy development will be directed towards.
My Department has being working in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a review of the 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines, which will inform a new National Planning Statement on Wind Energy under the new Planning and Development Act 2024.
143. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is considering further energy supports for households reliant on home heating oil to support people struggling to heat their homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26933/26]
View answerOil markets are responding to developments arising from the conflict in the Middle East and the Government is extremely conscious of the impact that the global spike in oil prices is having on people and businesses across the country. Lower relative taxes, compared to petrol and diesel, make Irish home heating more sensitive to price increases in the international wholesale benchmark price.
In terms of home heating oil, the NORA levy of 2 cent per litre has been reduced to a nominal amount from 1 April 2026 until 31 July 2026. On 24 March 2026 it was announced the Fuel Allowance season will be extended by 4 weeks until 1 May 2026 due to the recent increases in fuel costs. Government will also defer the planned increase in carbon tax, scheduled for May 1st. This will impact green diesel and non-propellant fuels such as kerosene heating oil, natural gas and solid fuels.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce has been established by Government to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability. This will be a crucial element of the Government’s work to improve competitiveness, complementing the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity.
145. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether he will consider initiating a dumping taskforce in Cork. [26990/26]
View answerUnder the Waste Management Act, the primary responsibility for management and enforcement responses to illegal dumping lies with the local authorities. It is a matter for each local authority to determine the most appropriate awareness, enforcement and clean-up actions in relation to illegal dumping taking account of local circumstances. In that context it would be a matter for Cork City and County Councils to determine whether to establish a taskforce to deal with illegal dumping issues in the Cork region.
The Department provides significant support to the local authority sector in their efforts to tackle illegal dumping. Over €23m has been provided to the sector under the Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI) since it was first introduced in 2017 in order to encourage a collaborative approach between local authorities, community groups and other State Agencies to tackling the problem. Some €2.89m was provided in support of the ADI in 2025, while allocations for 2026 will be finalised shortly.
Full details of the amounts provided to individual local authorities by the Department under the ADI for each of the years 2017 - 2025, including details of the specific projects carried out by Cork City and County Councils over that period are available on the gov.ie website at the following link - https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/anti-dumping-initiative/
The Department also continues to invest heavily in the local authority waste enforcement network, through the Waste Enforcement Measures Grant Scheme, with the intention of maintaining a visible presence of waste enforcement personnel on the ground across the State. €7.53m was provided to local authorities under the scheme in 2025, including €275,000 to Cork City Council and €460,023 to Cork County Council, while a further €7.7m has been allocated for 2026.
146. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the extent to which gas storage and/or hydrogen storage at Kinsale Head is being assessed; the status of that assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26920/26]
View answerMy Department currently has no plans or projects to use the Kinsale fields for gas storage. My officials are aware of interest by a number of parties in potentially using Kinsale for natural gas and hydrogen storage. Progressing any such projects would be a matter for the project promoters concerned, including obtaining any necessary consents and permits.
The primary focus of this Government in relation to gas storage is the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve. As part of the review of Energy Security published in November 2023, my Department completed an assessment of gas storage that was location and technology neutral. This assessment, which was published in November 2023, concluded that a floating storage and importation facility known as an FSRU would be the most appropriate gas storage approach. The Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve is not intended for commercial use and will be divested when no longer required to secure the Irish energy system.
On the hydrogen side, a number of key work strands are being progressed over the next two years which will build the evidence base for informed policymaking on hydrogen storage in Ireland. Under action 10 under the National Hydrogen Strategy, my Department is working to develop the necessary legislative and regulatory frameworks required for the development and operation of geological hydrogen storage facilities.
UCD are currently assessing Ireland’s potential for offshore geological storage under the GeoStorie project. The outputs from this research are expected to include maps and related information for viable offshore geological storage options. The SEAI’s Decarbonised Electricity System Study is assessing which technologies, including hydrogen storage, are needed for a decarbonised electricity system in Ireland by 2050.
147. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the engagements his Department has had at EU and international level in response to the impact of escalating conflict in the Middle East, including reported attacks on global gas infrastructure, on energy security and supply chains; the actions being taken through these channels to mitigate risks to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22800/26]
View answerOn 31 March, I attended a meeting of EU energy ministers to discuss the EU-wide response to rising energy costs caused by conflict in the Middle East. This meeting followed from a letter from President Von Der Leyen to Energy Ministers, setting out potential measures that could address high prices.
The European Commission will provide additional details in the coming days on these proposals, particularly in respect of network charges and electricity taxation.
My officials have had regular and ongoing engagement with the EU and international organisations on this matter, including via the European Commission's Energy Union Taskforce, Oil Coordination Group and Gas Coordination Group, and the International Energy Agency's Oil Working Group, and Governing Board.
Ireland was also one of the Member States that participated in the International Energy Agency’s collective action for an oil stock release. The EU is well served by its prudent level of Strategic Reserves, relative to other parts of the world.
The current conflict underlines why we must accelerate the deployment of renewables across all sectors, continue to invest in our grid, and continue to invest in retrofitting of homes and businesses across the country.
During our upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU, we will drive the EU’s energy agenda, including making meaningful progress on the Grids Package, the Energy Security Regulation, and other key files which will help with the EU and Ireland’s security of supply and energy costs.
148. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will consider rolling out free solar panels for all eligible homes via the warmer homes scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27437/26]
View answerThe Warmer Homes Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency and warmth of homes owned by people at risk of energy poverty by providing fully funded retrofits. The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on behalf of my Department and is funded through the carbon tax revenues and the European Regional Development Fund.
The Warmer Homes Scheme is available to owner-occupied properties, based on the householder being in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection income supports. The scheme targets support to those on the lowest incomes who are living in the least efficient homes so that the resources available can have the greatest impact in addressing energy poverty.
The scheme follows a fabric-first approach, prioritising installation and ventilation to reduce heat loss before replacing heating systems in line with building regulations and best practice. At present, solar PV is not offered as a standard upgrade under the scheme. However, the SEAI is piloting the installation of renewable technologies including heat pumps and, in a small number of cases, solar PV where major renovations are taking place. As at end of March 2026, 70 Warmer Homes Scheme homes have received solar PV measures through the renewables pilot.
The renewables pilot is helping to assess the suitability of such technologies in the context of energy poverty. Measures available under the scheme are kept under ongoing review and my Department continues to work closely with the SEAI to ensure we maximise scheme output.
Homes built before 2011 are eligible for part-funded solar PV grants under separate SEAI programmes. The Government remains committed to ensuring that low-income households benefit from Ireland's renewable energy transition and will continue to explore how best to integrate solar and other technologies into our energy poverty programmes.
149. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if there are plans to maintain the grant system for new solar panels in domestic houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27699/26]
View answerThe Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) provides support to domestic applicants for renewable installations through grants provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
Since its launch in 2022, the Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme has gone from strength to strength, with over 10,000 applicants supported in 2022; 22,214 supported in 2023; 28,000 in 2024; and over 33,000 last year. Budget 2026 has allocated over €67m to this year’s scheme. So far this year over 7,000 homes have been supported.
This high level of demand indicates that the scheme is working well and that not only have citizens recognised the significant benefits of investing in solar PV, but that the solar PV industry and supply chain have adapted to the demands of our citizens. The scheme will be kept under review to ensure it is operating effectively and making the best use of Exchequer funding.
150. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when he expects that private wires connections will be sanctioned for use in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27631/26]
View answerThe General Scheme of the private wires legislation was approved by Government on 16 December 2025. Since then, my Department has been engaging with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to draft the necessary legislation required to bring forward the private wires regime. Introducing a private wires regime is a priority for this Government. The Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy have undertaken pre-legislative scrutiny on the General Scheme of the Private Wires Bill with a report expected in the coming weeks. It is my intention that the Bill will have completed its passage through the Oireachtas as early as possible this year.
152. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the progress made to date on key focus areas and actions for 2025 under the Climate Action Plan 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27658/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government Departments to carry out climate mitigation efforts every day. The rollout of retrofitting, renewable energy deployment, and more affordable electric vehicles continues at pace.
Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 35 years which is notable given concurrent demographic and economic growth including an increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) most recent emissions reporting confirms that Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions for a third consecutive year, with a decrease of 6.8% in 2023 followed by a further 2% reduction in 2024.
We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030, having now reached the major milestone of 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. We are now prioritising the development of our offshore wind capacity. We have doubled our wind energy capacity over the past 10 years, and in February wind energy provided a record 50% of our electricity. The Government has also approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in Grid for the period 2026 – 2030 which is fundamental to the electrification of homes, businesses and transport. The 2025 ZEVI target for electrical vehicle sales of 195,000 was surpassed in October 2025, with sales now at 212,000. I have recently announced an unprecedented package of new and enhanced grants for homeowners across the country who are looking to benefit from home energy upgrades under the National Residential Retrofit Plan.
To track implementation of Climate Action Plans (CAP), the Department of the Taoiseach works with the implementing Departments to publish quarterly progress reports. Details on every action due in that quarter is published as an Appendix to each report. Legacy actions from previous CAPs are also included.
These are all available on the gov.ie website under www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/publications/climate-action-plan-progress-reports/#climate-action-plan-2023
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to strengthen the delivery structures to deliver the Climate Action Plan through the Climate Action Delivery Board.
As part of governance arrangements I chair the Climate Action Delivery Board. This reflects the Government’s wider commitment to ensuring that governance structures evolve in line with the move into the implementation and delivery phase of the climate action agenda.
The Programme for Government also resolved to enhance and improve governance structures to deliver Climate Action. In line with this, and to provide enhanced and co-ordinated oversight and strategic direction on the delivery of the Climate Action Plan, the Climate Action Plan Programme Board (CAPPB) was established. The Programme Board is made up of climate Delivery Taskforces from across sectors to bring an overall cohesion and alignment to climate action.
Of the 13 actions under my Department which were due to be reported in Q4 2025, 3 were completed by Q4 with 10 remaining outstanding. Similarly, of the 24 legacy actions included for my Department in the Q4 Progress Report, 1 was completed by Q4 2025. All updates will be included in further progress reports which will be compiled and published by the Department of the Taoiseach following Government consideration and approval.
153. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps he is taking to make Ireland more resilient to climate change; the reason progress has been so slow (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26174/26]
View answerThe World Meteorological Organisation has confirmed that we have just experienced the eleven hottest years on record. The ICARUS Climate Research Centre has concluded that climate change made the floods experienced at the beginning of this year almost three times more likely to occur. More frequent and intense storms, rising sea levels and coastal change are just some of the impacts of our changing climate for which we must build resilience in Ireland.
Government is committed to protecting Ireland’s present and future generations with a whole of government approach to Climate Adaptation underpinned by the National Adaptation Framework (NAF). Under the NAF, and Guidelines to sectors published by my Department, a new suite of Sectoral Adaptation Plans (SAPs) have been developed.
The development of the SAPs, covering 13 key sectors, were informed by the 2025 National Climate Change Risk Assessment and standardised climate data from Met Éireann. Sectors were required to collaborate with each other and with Climate Action Regional Offices during SAP development to assist with alignment on cross-cutting issues including coastal impacts, the built environment, urban environment, health impacts, and disaster risk reduction to holistically address the priority risks for Ireland of extreme wind, coastal erosion, flooding, and heat as identified in the NCCRA. The SAPs contain measurable actions to improve the resilience of those sectors over the next five years and were approved by Government in November last year and have now moved to implementation phase.
To enhance high-level support for adaptation governance across Government, a new senior-level Adaptation Taskforce will monitor the overall delivery of actions, address cross-cutting issues and risk ownership, and ultimately accelerate progress. The Taskforce reports to the Climate Action Programme and Delivery Board which I chair.
As part of ongoing engagement between my officials and the CCAC, the CCAC has agreed to attend the next Adaptation Taskforce meeting to discuss their recommendations and progress with senior representatives from the SAP sectoral Departments.
154. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will report on his engagement with stakeholders in relation to the current fuel and energy costs challenges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27680/26]
View answerThe Government recognises and understands the pressures that have arisen due to rising fuel costs as a result of war in the Middle East.
In recent days, Government announced a new package that includes measures on fuel costs and support for the transport, farming and fisheries sectors. This package was announced following significant engagement with industry representatives, and is in addition to the previously allocated €250 million in targeted supports to assist those experiencing real and immediate financial pressure. This is one of the more significant Government interventions in the EU.
The temporary and targeted measures include:
• a reduction in excise on diesel by a further 10c (including VAT) bringing the total reduction on diesel to 32c (including VAT);
• a reduction in excise on petrol by a further 10c (including VAT) bringing the total reduction to 27c (including VAT);
• a reduction in excise on marked gas oil (green diesel) by a further 2.4c (including VAT) bringing the total to 7.4c (including VAT);
• a deferral of the planned increase in carbon tax — scheduled for 1 May — until the Budget; and
• the reductions in excise include the NORA levy reduction (announced in March).
The reductions in excise outlined above will take effect from midnight on 14 April and run until 31 July 2026.
Government will also be establishing a new Road Transporters Support Scheme as well as supports for coach operators providing local link services.
A comprehensive €100 million Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme to assist farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers has also been announced.
This package of supports is in addition to the measures announced in March, which include:
• an expansion of the diesel rebate scheme, backdating it to January, to help sectors of the economy most impacted by the rise of fuel costs; and
• an extension of the fuel allowance season to help the most vulnerable with the cost of home heating.
As Minister, I have also engaged with the four biggest energy retailers in recent months to ensure that hardship funds and focused measures are in place for any customers who find themselves in difficulty.
Also as Minister, I recently wrote to retail electricity and gas suppliers, as well as fuel suppliers, to emphasise the importance of reducing the exposure for Irish consumers from the price shocks that global uncertainty can create.
A cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established last June to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026. The NEAT is now preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan that will be completed in Q3 of this year.
155. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the total amount in unredeemed deposits under the deposit return scheme in 2025; the amount from the 2025 unredeemed deposits made available to community-based initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27075/26]
View answerI refer the Deputy to the reply to Questions numbered 382, 383 and 384 of 13 January 2026.
The position regarding the value of unredeemed deposits remains unchanged.
Re-turn's 2025 annual report and financial statements, due mid-year, will contain final and audited figures for unredeemed deposits.
